Last week, the update to watchOS 5.1.2 allowed Apple Watch Series 4 users to start using the electrocardiogram sensor that comes with the device. This test looks for abnormal heart beats, and like the heart rate monitor on the device, the ECG feature is expected to be a useful tool for wearers. As we've noted numerous times over the last few years, the heart rate monitor has saved several lives.
As it turns out, even though the ECG sensor on the Series 4 version of the smartwatch has just been made available, it has already saved at least one life. According ...Read more ...

When Apple announced its latest Series 4 Watch with electrocardiogram features, my mom took a sigh of relief, and then proceeded to set a reminder to order one for my dad. That's because we found out last year, by chance, that he has atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat, often times rapid heart rate that can increase your risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related issues.
The ECG feature, which monitors your heart rhythm and can detect AFib,* went live just two days ago. Already, at least one person has benefited from it.
Yesterday, a person on...Read more ...